Jamie George inspired by Joe Root to kick on after England captaincy blow

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• Hooker feared international career could be over
• George replaced by Maro Itoje on eve of Six Nations

Jamie George questioned whether he had an England future after being left hurt by Steve Borthwick's decision to strip him of the captaincy on the eve of the Six Nations. George said he was blindsided by the England head coach but after receiving advice from his inner circle – including the Saracens director, Mark McCall, Owen Farrell and his family – he has set his sights on a fourth World Cup, revealing the cricketer Joe Root is his inspiration.

George was installed as captain for the 2023 Six Nations and despite a difficult run of results in his year in charge – England won five of their 12 Tests – he was a hugely popular leader, both within the squad and among supporters.